Black and White Wedding Theme (2024)

FAQs

What is the dress code for a black and white wedding? ›

Somewhat on the unconventional side—unlike its 'co*cktail' or 'white tie' counterparts—the black and white dress code is one that is typically assigned to semiformal and formal events. As the name suggests, guests are expected to dress exclusively in monochromatic hues from head to toe.

Nothing says “glamour” like incorporating elements of gold into a black and white wedding. You can even think outside the box with more varied colors like green or blue.

Whether you're planning a modern, minimalistic, romantic, classic or whimsical wedding, black-and-white is always the go-to colour scheme. It is uncomplicated. If you are not too sure what colour theme to go for, black-and-white is the easiest and most straight-forward solution.

A black and white wedding is much more than decorations and superstitions – such a theme symbolizes union, love and teamwork, as can be seen in Chinese philosophy. In addition, the aesthetics are as basic as they are sophisticated and delightful to look at.

For another casual but elevated party look, pair white jeans with a black leather jacket. The jacket adds a touch of edginess, while the white jeans maintain a timeless look. Then, complete the outfit with heeled sandals and a black bag for a polished party outfit.

We advise against wearing white to weddings, but a printed dress with a hint of white or ivory is definitely approved. A black-and-white dress is a classic choice, as long as the pattern isn't too distracting.

The colour scheme, when it comes to what to wear, is designed for the bridal party i.e. the groom, groomsmen, bridesmaids, pageboys etc. Unless you're in that bridal party, you'd be best to steer clear of trying to match them. Think of it a bit like a stage show.

A mix of peonies and gerbera daisies with a touch of color adds an understated elegance to the bride's white and black bridesmaids' dresses. In addition to the bouquets, white blooms and greenery were displayed during the ceremony and reception.

"Guests can absolutely wear black to a wedding," says Shawne Jacobs, President and Creative Director of Anne Barge. "In the past, black was a color typically worn for mourning. However, over the years couples have been more open to breaking the rules and opting for non-traditional, modern wedding dress codes.

Can I wear black and white polka dots to a wedding? ›

Classic Black & White: Timeless and sophisticated, black and white polka dot dresses are a go-to choice for winter weddings.

Luckily, times have changed, and given the fact that wedding fashion etiquette norms have shifted over the years, we now have good news for fans of coal-colored ensembles. “It is absolutely acceptable for a female to wear a black dress to a wedding,” Swann advises.

Some say that white represents purity and innocence, while black is a symbol of power and authority. Another theory is that white was originally worn because it was the most difficult color to stain, while black was seen as the most luxurious color.

A white wedding is a traditional formal or semi-formal wedding originating in Great Britain. The term originates from the white colour of the wedding dress, which originated with Anne of Brittany during her 1499 marriage to Louis XII of France.

The color white represented purity, symbolizing both a woman's chastity and her transition to a married Roman matron. It was also associated with Vesta, the virgin goddess of hearth, home and family who was served by temple priestesses garbed in distinctive white clothing.

While black is acceptable for a summer wedding, it may not always be a wise choice. If the wedding is outdoors, it simply may be too hot to wear black. Skip a black dress for a cooler color that will reflect the sun. In fall or winter, darker colors like black are more appropriate.

As long as it's not considered culturally inappropriate or against the dress code, you can wear black to a wedding. Depending on where the couple is exchanging vows, which season their special day is taking place in, and what time of day everything begins, black may or may not be your best color option.

I actually just invested in a classic black suiting option that will be my go-to for fall weddings.” Alexandra Macon, Vogue contributor and co-founder of Over-The-Moon, agrees: "It is perfectly acceptable, and chic, to wear black to a wedding—as long as it's festive and not funereal," she says.

Turns out, wearing red to a wedding means to some that “you've slept with the groom.” “Old Wives' Tale, but yeah,” Mitchell explained. However, both wedding planners agreed on a more modern reason for not wearing red: It could be seen as a way to grab the attention away from the bride.